Morton tops 1,700km, leads peloton ahead of crucial climbs

EF Education-Nippo’s Lachlan Morton has covered in excess of a reported 1,700 kilometres so far in his quest to complete the entire 2021 Tour de France route before the peloton arrive in Paris.

Lachlan Morton during day five of his Alt Tour Source: Supplied

Morton is approaching a week in the saddle, having already amassed 67 hours in order to raise funds for the World Bicycle Relief.

The Australian covered 370 kilometres in 14 hours on Wednesday and pushed his lead past the peloton to 420km ahead of this weekend’s trek through the French Alps.

“I think the mornings are the hardest part of the day, but I have managed to have a good sleep,” Morton said.

“Today I’m hoping to tick off another 300km or so heading across France towards the Alps.

“I think the roads will be a little more forgiving than (what) we’ve had over the past four days, so let’s see what the day holds.”

Though cycling solo, Morton encountered several other riders from Tours and remains upbeat about his chances of reaching Transfer 7 in time.

“My day is done,” the 29-year-old said on the eve of day six. “I did 370 kilometres.

“I’m at this beautiful little campsite, about to set up my bag.

“Unfortunately, no shower today, hopefully this rain holds off too, but all in all a pretty good day.”

Ever so cheerful, Morton was quick to give credit to the liquids fuelling him for the climbs.

“Chocolate milk gives you energy, beer fills you up with carbs and Coke just evens everything out,” he added with a smile.

“It’s a magic combo.”

The Tour de France continues tonight with Stage 7 and you can catch all the action on SBS and SBS On Demand at 8:30pm (AEST), with the SKODA Tour Tracker app commencing from 6:50pm (AEST).